Mentoring makes a difference

e Graeme Dingle Foundation Western Bay of Plenty reaches more than 3800 youth each week through their proven programmes Kiwi Can, Stars, Career Navigator and Project K – helping young people to build con dence, tackle life’s challenges and build bright futures.

Mentoring is a vital part of their rangatahi programmes and this represents a rewarding experience for both the students and mentors.

Full training and support is given to all mentors.

“Our mentors come from all walks of life, but the thing they have in common is passion to make a real di erence in the challenging world our rangatahi face,” says Graeme Dingle Foundation Western Bay of Plenty regional manager Dan Allen-Gordon.

“Every one of us that overcame major obstacles as a young person has had a signi cant adult help them succeed.”

Mentors meet up with their rangatahi fortnightly and group activities are also arranged periodically throughout the year for students and their mentors – from bowling and rock climbing to skydiving and mud runs! Mentors also help young people work towards and achieve their goals.

“Seeing students grow and being beside them as they overcome challenges and accomplish their goals is just amazing –and it isn’t di cult, it’s just about being a friend, a listening ear and a sounding board,” says Helen Fraser, a four-time mentor for the foundation.

“ e chance to help, to give opportunities and be a positive role model and inspire young people is amazing. I love it.”

To nd out more about becoming a mentor, email: dan.allen-gordon@ dinglefoundation.org.nz